Composer: Hans Krasa
Works: Brundibar
Performers: Bambini di Praga, Jerusalem van Leer Chamber Music Players / Bohumil Kulinsky; Tölzer Knabenchor, Polish Nightingales, Philharmonic Children’s Choir / Raphael Sommer; Choeur d’enfants du Conservatoire Nationale de la Region d’Aubervilles / Francis-Hugues Leclair; Children’s Choir of Malmö Musikteater / Michael Adelson; Barbara Strowwi Ensemble, Musica Judaica / Francesco Lotoro
Recording: Various language performances (Czech, German, French, Swedish, Italian)
Label: Jeunesses Musicales Internationale
Hans Krasa’s Brundibar occupies a unique and poignant space within the canon of 20th-century operatic works. This charming children’s opera, composed in 1938, has become emblematic not only for its accessible musical language but also for its harrowing history as a beacon of hope during the Holocaust. Originally performed by children in the Terezin concentration camp, the opera serves as both an artistic expression and a testament to resilience amidst despair. This newly released compilation presents Brundibar in various languages, showcasing international children’s choirs that breathe life into Krasa’s vibrant score.
The audio CD features a complete Czech performance by the Bambini di Praga, whose youthful exuberance captures the essence of Krasa’s music. The choir’s articulation and clarity are commendable, particularly in the buoyant opening number, where the interplay between soloists and ensemble evokes the spirited dialogue of a children’s playground. The subsequent tracks, presenting excerpts in German, French, Swedish, and Italian, demonstrate the universal appeal of the work, with each choir bringing its cultural nuances to the fore. Notably, the Tölzer Knabenchor’s rendition of “Není to tak,” showcases a remarkable blend of precision and warmth, illustrating their ability to convey the opera’s inherent humor and pathos.
The engineering quality of this recording merits attention. Each choir is captured with clarity, ensuring that the distinct timbres of children’s voices resonate beautifully without losing the ensemble’s collective sound. The balance between soloists and the accompanying chamber ensemble is particularly well-managed, allowing the intricacies of Krasa’s orchestration to shine through. The recording exudes a sense of intimacy, which is crucial for a work that intimately relates to themes of childhood and innocence.
However, the overall presentation falters slightly due to the packaging and accompanying materials. With minimal information regarding the composer and a lack of libretto, the listener might find it challenging to fully appreciate the narratives embedded within the music. A more comprehensive booklet would undoubtedly enhance the educational value of this release, particularly for younger audiences who might benefit from greater context about Krasa’s life and the opera’s historical significance.
The emotional weight of Brundibar is amplified by the unadulterated purity of the children’s voices. Each performance serves as a reminder of the resilience of those who sang the piece in Terezin, a place where music became a lifeline in the face of inhumanity. The vitality displayed by the young performers transcends mere technical proficiency; it resonates with a haunting poignancy that invites reflection on the music’s historical context.
This release presents an invaluable resource for educators and a touching experience for any listener. The performances, while varied in language and cultural expression, unite in their celebration of Krasa’s joyous yet deeply moving score. The project’s intent to showcase children from different backgrounds engaging with this significant work is commendable and enriches the narrative surrounding Brundibar. Each performance stands as a testament to the power of music in fostering understanding and hope, making this compilation a vital addition to any classical music collection.
